In an evolving world that has grown in its opportunities for the development of new business ideas, there has never been a more exciting time for young people to develop an understanding of the diverse world of business as part of a broad and balanced curriculum that encourages young people to be the best that they can be.
The Business Studies curriculum at Philip Morant School fosters an ambitious but supportive approach, aiming to encourage young, aspiring entrepreneurial minds to explore and understand key aspects of business, both local and global. This diversity supports engagement from a variety of student backgrounds within the community of the classroom. As students explore how businesses shape small and large communities, we ensure their learning experience on the course helps them to thrive in theirs. Students will grow and develop their knowledge, beginning the GCSE course with the building blocks of spotting business opportunities and progressing to understand how this can be developed practically; made effective; managed well, and grown over time.
With exposure to a range of well known and recognisable businesses throughout the course, students have the opportunity to develop knowledge through engaging case studies of already established businesses, meaning they can apply their knowledge and skills broadly. As students complete a case study they will evaluate what makes it successful and what this success relies on, drawing on prior knowledge and gaining an understanding of how social, cultural and financial contexts can shape business success or outcomes.
Students are given the tools and knowledge to be able to effectively study aspects of business, and business development, in a structured and ambitious curriculum that builds schema over time through two umbrella ‘Themes’ (Theme 1– Investigating Small Business & Theme 2- Building a Business.). The units of each theme are progressive allowing students to bring established knowledge into new learning to support them in grappling with new content.
The development and progress of the students’ understanding of key business concepts is supported through regular recall, and opportunities to apply knowledge to case study scenarios. In addition, where business studies requires students to draw on core maths skills, students are guided through explicit teaching and provided with deliberate practice opportunities to strengthen their level of application and build confidence. With much of the business world surrounding the students in the consumer community, many of the case studies are relatable for young people, making the learning meaningful and connected to their everyday lives.
We proudly recognise that Business Studies is a subject infused with challenging content that we feel supports students on their upward journey to develop themselves in a growing commercial world, and strive to be the best that they can be.
